A robust immune system is what keeps you perennially healthy and guards your body from diseases of all kinds. These ailments strike the body when your natural defenses are down. So, boosting your immune system naturally can prevent chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, cancer, cardiac disease, arthritis.

We provide you with a list of eight simple things that can be tried out for a healthy and long life:

1. Eat food that provides you optimum nutrition. Have the right type of food items that make up most of our nutritional intake – carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Ideally, your range should be 45-65 percent carbohydrates, 20-35 percent fats, and 10-35 percent proteins.

2. Ensure that you get enough micronutrients, including vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients that contribute boosting the immunity directly.

3. Go for a walk or do some physical exercise for at least 30 minutes a day. Remember that the gym is not the only place to work out. Simple exercises like dancing or gardening will do.

4. Pursue activities that can lift your spirits. People with a positive bend of mind are found healthier and less prone to depression, anger, fear, pessimism. A healthy mind can contribute to a healthy body.

5. Sleep at night is important as many biochemical reactions that occur during sleep are necessary for both physical and mental well-being. Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to increased inflammation and chronic disease. Sleep for seven or eight hours every night can boost your immune system naturally.

6. Have medical checkups regularly to rule out any illness.

7. Cut down risk factors like smoking, drinking and overeating, especially if any illness related to these habits run through your family.

8. Keep your body and environment clean. Take measures to avoid air pollution and unclean water inside your home and office.